Hurricane Sandy Leaves New Jersey Liquor Lovers High and Dry

One of the potentially unforeseen consequences of Hurricane Sandy‘s aftermath might see New Jersey boozers left without their favorite beverage. Fedway Associates Inc., the exclusive distributor in the state for fine liquors like Cristal and Svedka vodka, had their warehouse in south Kearny, New Jersey left in shambles thanks to 10-foot tidal surges from the horrendous weather. They don’t expect to be back in full operation until December, so folks might be out of luck when it comes to their particular brands.

Fedway is the sole supplier of Grey Goose, the imported French vodka, said Sasha Vaynerchuk, 59, the owner of Wine Library in Springfield, where a 750-milliliter bottle of the top-shelf booze sells for $35.

“If somebody drinks Grey Goose, you can’t replace with Smirnoff or Ketel One,” Vaynerchuk said, adding that wine drinkers are more willing to buy other brands if a store doesnt stock their favorite. “The customer has much more loyalty to spirits.”

New Jersey law prevents alcohol retailers from buying their product from those distributors located outside the state, but Governor Chris Christie said he would “consider” lifting the restriction if asked. It looks like New Jersey folks won’t even be able to drown their sorrows how they want.